Jacksonville Honors Legal Community at 2025 Law Day Ceremony

Jacksonville Honored Legal Community at 2025 Law Day Ceremony

Jacksonville celebrated Law Day on May 1 with an awards ceremony held at the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Jacksonville Riverfront, recognizing members of the legal community, including non-attorneys who have made positive contributions.

The Jacksonville Bar Association (JBA) hosted the event to commemorate Law Day, a day founded by an act of Congress in 1961 that honors the rule of law and the vital role courts play in a free society. Among the highlights was the presentation of several prestigious awards to individuals who exemplify dedication to justice, community service, and civic responsibility.

Key Awards and Recipients

The Jacksonville Daily Record Lawyer of the Year Award was conferred upon Octavius Holliday, an assistant state attorney and special prosecution director for the 4th Judicial Circuit. Holliday received the award for his active engagement in the community and his commitment to fostering justice through mentorship and involvement in various programs, including the JBA’s Raines High School Future Lawyers program and The Real Men Read literacy initiative.

Judge Audrey Moran was awarded the William J. Sheppard Lifetime Achievement Award, acknowledging her over 40 years of distinguished service in areas such as law, government, and community development. Her pioneering role as the first female assistant state attorney appointed as a division director in the 4th Judicial Circuit and significant contributions to various organizations demonstrate her impact on both the legal and local community.

The Liberty Bell Award, which honors non-lawyers who contribute notably to the legal community, was presented to Dennis Harrison, chief development officer at Jacksonville Area Legal Aid. Harrison has played a crucial role in fundraising initiatives that have raised over $2.6 million for legal assistance programs in the area.

Theme and Guest Speaker

This year’s Law Day theme from the American Bar Association is “The Constitution’s Promise: Out of Many, One.” During the ceremony, insights from leaders in the Jacksonville legal community stressed the significance of unity and diversity in promoting adherence to the rule of law.

Roman Martinez, global chair of the Supreme Court and Appellate Practice at Latham & Watkins, served as the guest speaker. He discussed his extensive experiences before the Supreme Court, including insights into the important case overturning Chemron v. NRDC, which has implications for administrative law.

Commitment to Justice and Community

The event highlighted the ongoing commitment of the Jacksonville legal community to inclusivity and justice. Noteworthy leaders acknowledged the efforts to bridge the gap between the legal system and the broader community, showcasing the work being done to ensure democracy is preserved and accessible to all.

Throughout the celebration of Law Day, honorees and speakers alike encapsulated a shared vision of a just society, emphasizing that the rule of law remains a cornerstone of a free and equitable community.

Conclusion

The 2025 Law Day ceremony not only honored outstanding individuals but also reinforced the mission of the Jacksonville Bar Association to acknowledge the vital connections among legal professionals, civic leaders, and the community. By celebrating these accomplishments and ongoing initiatives, the event aimed to inspire further contributions to the legal field and the community at large.